the fruits of my labor

Today, I spent the afternoon dipping things in chocolate. And by “things,” I mean candy. Here are a few pictures of the results. From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 Mmmmm. Cherry pie! FromChristmas in Arkansas 2008

Merry Christmas ’08

Well, kids, as I suspected, Santa did not bring me a fully-weighted 88-key keyboard for Christmas. This was no surprise and was not at all a disappointment. I knew it was highly unlikely. 🙂 Instead, I *did* get a snazzy new microwave and completely perfect toaster that promises “carefree” toasting. Until I saw that on …

ribs, stories, and St. Nick

So, if you’ve been paying any attention at all, you know that the Norell clan tends to go a wee bit overboard with the Christmas cheer. For starters, *everyone* in this house still believes in Santa Claus — you’re just simply not allowed in the door this time of year if you don’t. Yesterday, Grandma …

Gabriel.

From Christmas in Arkansas 2008 Here’s Gabriel, the adopted grandson, oh-so-eager to have his picture taken. It’s a nonstop barrel of laughs here Chez Norell this year. Today I’m on wrapping duty and participating in the Holiday Baking Extravaganza. Happy Christmas Eve! 🙂

the incredible shrinking Liz

OK, so maybe “incredible” takes this a bit too far. Yes, yes, alright, it’s definitely going too far. But nevertheless, things are progressing famously! I am not sure how, since I haven’t exercised (in any sort of rigorous way) in over a week now (thank you vacation, grrr) and have been eating all sorts of …

RIBs / RICs

My friend Jeff and I have decided to coin new acronyms for all the singletons out there. RIB: Random Internet BoyRIC: Random Internet Chick Although neither of us is exactly in renegade dating mode, we find these acronyms to be helpful in certain contexts. And hopefully, you will, too!

ils sont arrive’!

The family has begun to arrive. Grandma’s here now, and Tracy + company will be here forthwith. Let the week of Christmas cheer begin!! I love my family, I do, and nobody would ever dare suggest otherwise. But four days? All together? I am sensing some marathon paper-writing sessions in my near future, is all …